Cruising has become one of the most popular modes of travel, offering passengers a relaxing and luxurious vacation experience. With the growing popularity of this industry, it’s important to understand which markets are driving this growth. In recent years, the fastest growing cruise market has been in Asia.
Asia’s Cruise Market Growth
The Asia-Pacific region has witnessed an exponential growth in the cruising industry. According to a report by Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), Asian cruise passenger volume increased from 775,000 in 2012 to over 4 million in 2018. This growth rate is remarkable, considering that the industry was virtually non-existent just a few decades ago.
The Asian market is expected to continue its rapid expansion with cruise lines investing heavily in this region. Major players such as Royal Caribbean, Carnival Corporation and Genting Cruise Lines have all announced plans to increase their presence in Asia.
What’s Driving The Growth?
There are several factors that have contributed to the rapid growth of cruising in Asia. One of the main reasons is the region’s expanding middle class population who are looking for new and unique travel experiences. Many Asians prefer cruising as a way to explore various destinations without having to worry about language barriers and logistics.
Another factor driving growth is infrastructure development. Governments across Asia have invested heavily in developing ports and terminals that can accommodate large cruise ships. Countries like Singapore, Japan, and China have made significant investments in building world-class facilities to attract cruise lines and passengers.
Cruise Lines Catering To The Asian Market
To cater to this growing market, cruise lines are adapting their ships and services to suit Asian tastes and preferences. For example, Genting Cruise Lines introduced its Dream Cruises brand specifically for the Asian market with features such as casinos, duty-free shopping areas, karaoke lounges, and authentic Asian cuisine options.
Royal Caribbean has also launched its Quantum of the Seas ship in Asia with onboard features such as a skydiving simulator, a robotic bar, and a Bionic Bar where robots mix and serve cocktails. These innovative experiences are aimed at attracting Asian travelers who are looking for something new and exciting.
The Future Of The Asian Cruise Market
The future of the Asian cruise market looks promising with continued investment in infrastructure and increased demand from the growing middle class population. Cruise lines are expected to continue to adapt their ships and services to cater to the unique tastes of Asian travelers.
In conclusion, Asia’s fast-growing cruise market is driven by several factors including expanding middle class population, infrastructure development, and cruise lines adapting their ships and services to suit Asian tastes. With continued investment in this region, the future of cruising in Asia looks bright.